China-based captain Mikel Obi leads the squad having fellow midfielders Wilfred Ndidi, Ogenyi Onazi, John Ogu, Oghenekaro Etebo, Joel Obi, Mikel Agu and Uche Agbo. But the players who brought us to the World Cup without any defeat are the first choice now.

Lokosa, forward for Nigerian Premier League side Kano Pillars, has enjoyed a great season scoring 18 goals in 20 matches, while the 26-year-old Nwankwo, attacker for Serie A's Crotone, will get his maiden global call-up due to his fine form in the Italian top flight, scoring six goals in seven matches.

"I must commend Coach Rohr and his technical team for blending quality NPFL players into the team in the provisional list".

The Super Eagles of Nigeria will regroup for the second time this year when they begin preparations for the World Cup in Russian Federation with a friendly game against DR Congo.